El Dorado’s design for Parrott Creek Child and Family Services is a finalist in the 8th annual GRAY Awards, On the Boards breakout category. The project aims to create modern, trauma-informed buildings that double the capacity of the facility to care for up to 40 youth in Oregon.
The expansion, funded by private and public sources, seeks to enhance residential treatment for highly traumatized youth. By working with local and national experts, Parrott Creek aims to redefine the care provided to system-involved youth, emphasizing diversity and inclusivity.
The project integrates a design approach that uses natural surroundings to help with healing. Collaborative efforts with organizations like Your Street Your Voice, University of Oregon, and Harvard Graduate School of Design demonstrate a commitment to principles that prioritize fairness and equality.
El Dorado, the architecture firm behind the design, has a strong commitment to community-driven projects. David Dowell, Daniel Renner, and Sophie Hong are among the team members working on the project.
Parrott Creek seeks to create a culturally inclusive environment, including a “Land Back” initiative for Indigenous communities. The project honors the Indigenous peoples’ ancestral lands and aims to address the pressing need for trauma-informed services in Oregon.
The project’s collaborators include Walsh Construction, Adre, and Agency Setting & Planning. They demonstrate a commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for system-involved youth.
As the project moves forward, the design approach will play a key role in helping youth heal and connect with nature. By prioritizing diversity and inclusivity, Parrott Creek and El Dorado aim to create a model for youth treatment facilities nationwide.
Related: Explore 28 Cozy Winter Bedding Ideas Before Cold
The project’s impact extends beyond the facility itself, as it aims to redefine the care provided to system-involved youth in Oregon. By working with local and national experts, Parrott Creek seeks to create a culturally inclusive environment that honors the Indigenous peoples’ ancestral lands.
According to the report, the project is expected to be completed by August 2025. The facility’s expansion will double its capacity, allowing it to care for up to 40 youth. This increase in capacity will help address the need for trauma-informed services in Oregon.
One aspect of the project that sets it apart is its commitment to principles that prioritize the needs of the community. This approach aims to create a supportive environment for system-involved youth, which is essential for their healing and growth, much like commercial systems prioritize comfort and efficiency.
The firm’s experience working with artists to incorporate public art into architectural works will likely influence the final design of the facility. This collaboration will help create a unique and supportive environment for the youth served by Parrott Creek.
El Dorado’s design is notable.
They have a strong commitment to community-driven projects. The project’s innovative approach to trauma-informed design has the potential to create a new standard for youth treatment facilities nationwide.
